Keralites flocked to markets, malls, and textile shops on Thursday, embracing a last-minute shopping rush in preparation for Thiru Onam, the state’s most significant festival. The vibrant holiday spirit was palpable at key locations such as the iconic Chalai Market in Thiruvananthapuram, Broadway in Kochi, and S.M. Street in Kozhikode. This year, the tradition of Uthrada Pachil-characterized by a final shopping frenzy before Onam-remained robust across Kerala.
At Chalai Market, which has been a staple for nearly two centuries, business thrived amidst long lines of flower, vegetable, and grocery vendors. Asokan, a wholesale vegetable trader servicing notable hotels in Thiruvananthapuram, shared insights into market trends. He noted that heightened demand during Onam had slightly inflated the prices of perishables. “Growers in neighboring states like Karnataka and Tamil Nadu often delay supplies, anticipating increased demand during Onam, resulting in higher prices,” he explained. However, he added that this year’s price increase is less pronounced than in previous years.
Pottuvelu Subramanian, head of one of Kerala’s oldest trading houses, highlighted a different trend: the prices of essential items such as green gram, jaggery, sugar, and various groceries are at an all-time low. “The Kharif harvest was abundant this year. Furthermore, the supply chain has remained intact, without interruptions like strikes affecting freight movement, leading to an overall 15% reduction in grocery prices,” he stated. He also observed a shift in shopping behavior, with many urban consumers favoring malls and supermarkets over small-scale retail shops.
Coconut oil prices, however, are an exception, with restaurateur Arulakam Prem noting that they have surged by around ₹80 per litre. This increase has compelled many restaurants to explore less costly cooking oils. Despite these high oil prices, demand for traditional ingredients such as plantains and banana leaves remains stable due to favorable harvesting conditions.
Upscale malls and retail outlets transformed into festive atmospheres, showcasing creative displays with artists portraying Mahabali, the mythical king associated with Onam. Traditional performances, including Kathakali and Chenda Melam, attracted large crowds to textile showrooms. Meanwhile, street vendors offered a variety of affordable toys, apparel, trinkets, and imitation jewelry, making the shopping experience even more engaging.
Onam also serves to revive Kerala’s agrarian traditions. Resident associations and youth clubs set up swings and organized traditional games like tug-of-war and pole climbing, fostering community spirit. Floral decorations and swings characteristic of the season remain popular, enhancing the festive atmosphere.
The festival’s legend evokes nostalgia for a more prosperous and egalitarian time under King Mahabali’s reign. According to lore, the gods were envious of his benevolent rule and banished him to the netherworld but permitted an annual visit to his people on Thiru Onam. For many Keralites, this holiday signifies seasonal transitions and the joy of reuniting with family and friends, reinforcing the bonds of community and tradition in a time-honored celebration.
As the festival approaches, Keralites embrace the spirit of Thiru Onam with enthusiasm, marking not just a time of festivity but also a profound connection to their cultural heritage.
Original Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/thiru-onam-eve-shopping-fervour-uthrada-pachil-peaks-in-kerala-on-thursday/article70011048.ece
Category : Kerala
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Publish Date: 2025-09-04 12:17:00
